MANILA: Nissan USA has the announced the pricing for the hotly-anticipated 2023 Nissan Z sports car. The Z Sport will start at US$39,990 (around P2.1 million), while the Z Performance will retail for US$49,990 (around P2.6 million). 

Both grades are scheduled to arrive at Nissan dealerships nationwide in US summer 2022. The carmaker added that the Z Proto Spec will join the Z lineup. 

All grades are equipped with a 400-horsepower three-liter V6 twin-turbo engine and a choice of six-speed manual transmission or a new nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Limited to 240 units for the U.S. market, the Proto Spec edition will feature a special plaque, as well as exclusive interior and exterior features, all paying homage to the Z Proto launched in 2020.

The 2023 Z boasts a fresh and sleek exterior design with a silhouette that communicates respect to its lineage with its long hood and short deck. 

As for performance, the Z will feature a mechanical limited-slip differential that helps distribute power to the driven wheel with the best grip. An available launch control will help eliminate the sports car's wheel spin and hop, by holding the engine at a pre-set rpm and modulates power during launches. 

Inside, the driver-centric cockpit takes inspiration from past Z generations with its traditional three analog pod gauges while including modern amenities like a 12.3-inch customizable racing-inspired TFT meter and available nine-inch touchscreen display.

"The Nissan Z is our company's heart and soul, bringing sports car design, performance and excitement to a broad range of buyers, starting with the introduction of the first generation more than 50 years ago," Senior Vice President for Nissan US Marketing and Sales Michael Colleran said.

"With a starting MSRP of less than US$40,000, this latest version is ready to create a whole new generation of Nissan Z fans when it comes to market this summer."

Photos from Nissan

Also read: Nissan PH welcomes new president